What can be used to remove clothing lice at home? - briefly
Washing garments in water at least 130 °F (54 °C) and drying them on high heat eliminates both lice and their eggs. Sealing clothing in a sealed plastic bag for two weeks or applying a fabric‑safe lice spray are additional effective options.
What can be used to remove clothing lice at home? - in detail
Removing lice from garments can be accomplished with a combination of heat, chemical agents, and thorough cleaning.
First, separate all affected items from uncontaminated clothing. Place them in sealed plastic bags for at least 48 hours; this deprives lice of food and can kill many insects.
Heat treatment is the most reliable method. Wash fabrics in water that reaches 130 °F (54 °C) or higher, then tumble‑dry on the hottest setting for a minimum of 30 minutes. For items that cannot be laundered, apply a steam cleaner that generates steam above 212 °F (100 °C) for several minutes, ensuring steam penetrates seams and folds.
Chemical options include over‑the‑counter lice sprays containing permethrin (1 %) or pyrethrin. Apply the product to the fabric according to the label, allow the recommended contact time (usually 5–10 minutes), then wash as described above. For delicate fabrics, a diluted solution of 0.5 % benzyl benzoate can be sprayed, left to dry, and then laundered.
Freezing is effective for items that cannot endure heat. Seal the clothing in a plastic bag and place it in a freezer set to –4 °F (–20 °C) for at least 48 hours.
Vacuuming interior surfaces of closets, drawers, and suitcases removes stray lice and nits. Use a brush‑type attachment and discard the vacuum bag or clean the canister immediately after use.
After treatment, re‑wash all surrounding textiles—bedding, towels, and upholstery—to prevent reinfestation. Repeat the washing and drying cycle after one week to eliminate any newly hatched lice that may have survived the initial process.
Safety precautions: wear disposable gloves when handling chemicals, work in a well‑ventilated area, and test any spray on an inconspicuous fabric patch to avoid discoloration. Store all treated items in sealed containers until the final cleaning step is completed.
Following these steps systematically eliminates lice from clothing without professional intervention.